Malaria remains leading cause of death, Expert warns

World Malaria Day, observed annually on 25 April, aims to raise awareness of global efforts to control and ultimately eradicate malaria.

Malaria is caused by parasites transmitted through the bites of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes. It is a global infectious disease that remains a leading cause of illness and death, particularly in the developing world.

Common symptoms include fever, headache, vomiting, diarrhoea, profuse sweating, and anaemia. If left untreated, malaria can result in renal failure, seizures, brain injury, coma, and even death.

Malaria Data in Nigeria

According to data from the World Health Organization (WHO), malaria is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in Nigeria, with young children and pregnant women disproportionately affected.

The WHO further reports that, despite concerted efforts to reduce its prevalence, this mosquito-borne disease is still responsible for approximately 597,000 deaths annually. In Nigeria, it accounts for 30% of childhood deaths, 11% of maternal deaths, and around 27% of deaths in infants.

Government Intervention

Over the years, the Federal Government has initiated various intervention programmes aimed at eliminating malaria. From the establishment of the National Malaria Service in 1948, which evolved into the National Malaria Control Programme in 1986, to the Roll Back Malaria Programme in 2000 and the National Malaria Strategic Plan of 2014 – each has guided the country’s transition from malaria control to elimination.

In April 2023, the Federal Government also approved the R21/Matrix-M malaria vaccine, targeting childhood malaria with an efficacy rate of up to 80%. Nevertheless, statistics reveal that Nigeria still bears nearly 27% of the global malaria burden.

Dr Dan Gadzama, Public Health Consultant and Programme Manager for the FCT Malaria Elimination Programme, noted that the government has made considerable efforts in combating malaria. These include the distribution of insecticide-treated nets, indoor residual spraying, improved access to effective antimalarial drugs, and the provision of seasonal malaria chemoprevention for at-risk children in 24 states.

However, Dr Gadzama pointed out that these interventions are challenged by factors such as inadequate funding, weak health systems, and drug resistance. He advocated increased investment to reach Nigeria’s vast population.

“With Nigeria recording the highest number of malaria cases globally, the government must prioritise funding for malaria programmes and establish sustainable financing mechanisms. This will ensure adequate implementation of malaria interventions and reduce the disease burden on the most vulnerable communities,” he said.

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) granted registration approval for the R21 malaria vaccine last year for the prevention of clinical malaria in children aged 5 to 36 months.

Dr Ekpo Edet, an expert in Malaria SBC Campaigns and Programme Officer at the Centre for Communication and Social Impact, noted that the vaccine would help reduce malaria cases and fatalities among children.

“Only three African countries have commenced the use of the malaria vaccine, and Nigeria has indicated interest in adopting it. Research has shown the vaccine to be highly effective in reducing both morbidity and mortality among children,” he added.

Public Opinions on Malaria

Some residents of the Federal Capital Territory expressed mixed views on malaria prevention strategies.

Chioma Chigbo said: “I went to the hospital for a check-up. I usually do some tests to find out whether it’s malaria or typhoid. I don’t like using mosquito nets because of the heat. I can recognise the symptoms.”

Hauwa Ayuba shared her approach: “I self-medicate whenever I experience malaria symptoms. I don’t go to the hospital. I’ve never used a mosquito net. I also use agbo (herbal medicine), and it works perfectly for me.”

Mr Raphael Onyilo, Head of Advocacy, Communication and Social Mobilisation at the National Malaria Elimination Programme, warned against self-medication, noting that inadequate treatment can lead to severe health complications.

Dr Agatha Nwibo, an Abuja-based medical practitioner, stressed the need for more health workers and greater investment in Primary Health Centres. She also called for free malaria treatment, especially for rural dwellers.

“People at the grassroots are living below the poverty line. The Federal Government should increase funding for primary health centres in local communities and ensure that malaria treatments are accessible and free,” she said.

Experts continue to call for greater collaboration with relevant stakeholders to eliminate malaria in Nigeria.

This year’s World Malaria Day is themed “Malaria Ends With Us: Reinvest, Reimagine, Reignite.”

Ifeoma Nwovu

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